ASC's Intersections Newsletter — Week of September 26, 2022
Nora's Note
Pedals down. It’s National Drive Electric Week, and the occasion comes at a time of significant development in NYS and the US in the push for electric vehicle (EV) adoption. Governor Kathy Hochul directed advancing regulatory action to require all new passenger cars, pickup trucks and SUVs sold in NYS to be zero emissions by 2035. And just this summer, the US passed the “tipping point” for mass adoption of EVs, with 36% of Americans saying they would consider buying or leasing an EV—and access to charging stations is the biggest concern keeping others from making the switch. This week, final approval came to start construction of a $7.5 billion nationwide EV charging network that will enable all 50 states to get started on a network that will result in an EV charger every 50 miles along interstate highways. While it’s all good news in the move forward, for many moderate-to-lower income people, adding a home charger is out of reach. Environmental Justice and shifting public perception to EVs as an option for everyone will need to be at the top of next step public engagement in this key climate action.
Transportation
MTA pilot program will allow open strollers on seven city bus routes. Over 140 buses will be involved in the program, becoming more accessible for parents with strollers and riders with disabilities. The accessible changes to buses also aim to boost ridership, which is currently 32% lower than pre-pandemic levels. The MTA committed to making 95% of their stations accessible earlier this year, bringing safe access to individuals with disabilities and parents with open strollers. Read more on how the push for more accessible MTA buses could impact future transit policy. (Source: Gothamist)
Grist: Against federal guidance, states plan to expand highways
Utility Dive: US Senate passes bill to maximize EV battery recycling for federal fleet vehicles
CNBC: Railroads and labor unions reach tentative deal to avert strike
Forbes: Inflation Reduction Act Benefits: Electric Vehicle Tax Incentives For Consumers And U.S. Automakers
Bloomberg: Lithium Smashes New Record as Supply Struggles to Feed EV Growth
Energy/Environment
New federal guidance aims to strengthen Indigenous land management. The US Department of the Interior has announced new policies enhancing collaboration between the federal government and Indigenous Nations in the management of 620 million acres of public land. The policies will follow the principles of co-management, which acknowledges tribes as sovereign governments, consults tribes in all stages of the decision-making process and incorporates Indigenous knowledge and practices for land management, which have become increasingly widespread in recent years. Read more on how the federal government will enact co-management policies with Indigenous Nations. (Source: Grist)
Utility Dive: New York announces $16.6M for hydrogen and 4 other long-duration storage demonstration projects
The New York Times: 31 Bridges, 2 Cities, 6 Towns: Greenway is New Jersey’s High Line
The Hill: US climate goals are achievable — if we can get the permits
E&E News: Electricity prices take biggest leap in 41 years
Canary Media: What does ‘just transition’ really mean?
Economic Development
US government rolls out a guide for consumers to take advantage of tax credits. Under the Inflation Reduction Act, consumers can qualify to save over $10,000 through climate incentives. The website will allow users to see the tax credits they are eligible for and sign up for updates on future credits and rebates. The tax credits will help consumers and small businesses purchase energy-efficient appliances, install heat pumps or solar panels and more. Read more on the climate incentives available to U.S consumers. (Source: E&E News)
PBS Newshour: Central California keeps on trucking with new manufacturing and transportation jobs
Forbes: Why Investors Are Taking A Deep Dive Into The Blue Economy
CNBC: Payrolls rose 315,000 in August as companies keep hiring
Bloomberg: Manhattan Home Sales Drop Below Pre-Covid Normal as Rates Bite
E&E News: Denver passed a sales tax for climate. Is it working?
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